Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has expressed his disappointment over the suspension of elected officials in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu, describing it as unhealthy and potentially damaging to the country’s image. Speaking as the Chairman at the Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium in Abuja on Saturday, March 22, 2025, Jonathan emphasized the need for caution and adherence to democratic principles.

Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan

Former President Goodluck Jonathan expressed his concern that the recent actions taken by key government officials in the executive and legislative branches are tarnishing Nigeria’s reputation. This statement comes on the heels of President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the oil-rich South-South region, which was followed by the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state House of Assembly for six months.

The decision was made to restore stability in Rivers State, which has been plagued by political turmoil due to the ongoing disagreement between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state lawmakers. This move aims to address the escalating tensions and bring calm to the region. President Bola Tinubu’s administration hopes that this intervention will help resolve the crisis and ensure a return to normalcy in the state.

President Bola Tinubu has declared the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state’s House of Assembly, effective for an initial six-month period. The president appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas as the state’s administrator to oversee governance.
“In the meantime, I hereby nominate Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.) as Administrator to take charge of the affairs of the state in the interest of the good people of Rivers State.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has shared his concerns about the political turmoil in Rivers State, noting that while it’s unconventional for former presidents to comment on current issues, he feels compelled to speak out. Jonathan emphasized that the country’s reputation and its ability to attract investments are closely tied to the actions of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan’s comments on the Rivers State situation were prompted by numerous Nigerians urging him to speak out as a prominent figure from the Niger Delta region. He expressed dismay over the undue influence exerted on the judiciary, stating that such actions erode trust in the institution.

President Bola Tinubu invoked Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing the need to restore peace and stability. He emphasized that this measure was necessary due to the prolonged political crisis that has crippled governance and threatened the state’s security. Tinubu also confirmed that the proclamation has been officially published in the Federal Gazette and submitted to the National Assembly, as required by the Constitution. This declaration marks a significant step in addressing the state’s challenges, with the aim of restoring order and ensuring the well-being of its citizens.

“I fervently hope that this crucial intervention will bring peace and stability back to Rivers State, reminding all parties involved of the constitutional obligations that govern political conduct in the state and throughout Nigeria”.